Virtual Anatomy Atlas

Abstract

The Virtual Anatomy Atlas will allow students to explore anatomy through photographic images with the dimension and clarity of finely dissected specimens. The team members will apply their fine photography and dissecting skills to capture a series of images of a human hand through five levels of dissection. The images will be "stitched" to produce a prototype QTVR movie. Students will be able to turn the specimen 360 degrees, and to peel back the layers of dissection one by one.

In producing the prototype movie, the team will test methods for mounting, stabilizing and lighting the specimen; for removing it in order to perform the next level of dissection; and then for returning it to its original position for the next round of photographs. The team will also learn from the process how many individual images are necessary to create an appropriate level of realism.